Outemu Lime vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lime, a tactile switch, to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, a linear switch, there are clear differences in their characteristics and features. The Lime switch is known for its lightweight and silenced approachable tactility, making it perfect for tactile fans seeking a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to its use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. Additionally, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other linear switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Lime uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, giving it a deep and full sound profile due to the softness of the material that absorbs more sound. This creates a dull and round sound that is pleasing to many typists. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary KTT blend for its top housing, resulting in a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. The combination of materials used in the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a unique sound experience that may cater to those who prefer a sharper and crisper typing sound.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Outemu Lime and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream differ significantly. The Lime's nylon bottom housing contributes to its deep and full sound profile, absorbing more sound due to the softness of the material. Conversely, the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing, made of polyketone, provides a smooth and clacky typing experience. With a coefficient of friction higher than nylon, the POK material offers exceptional durability and wear resistance, making it a top choice for making switches that can withstand intensive typing sessions.
While the top and bottom housings play a significant role in the sound and feel of a switch, both the Outemu Lime and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer unique characteristics in their housing materials. The nylon material in the Lime provides a softer and fuller sound profile, while the POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a smooth and clacky typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing distinct sound signatures that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel when typing.
Weight
When it comes to actuation force and bottom out force, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer different experiences. The Lime has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 43 grams. Similarly, the Lime has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 48 grams. This means that the Lime provides a lighter typing experience overall. The weight of a switch is important for determining comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lime for prolonged typing, while others may prefer the slightly heavier forces of the Vanilla Ice Cream for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces make each switch unique in its own way, catering to a variety of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is clear that the Lime has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among users seeking quicker response times, particularly gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Lime providing a slightly quicker press compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the responsiveness and feel of the key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
The Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a muted experience, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, giving typists a sharp and crisp auditory experience. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Lime switch would be more suitable, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced and resonant sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a feathery light typing experience, requiring little exertion from your fingers. This switch is perfect for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a buttery and creamy feel, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. If you prefer a light and gentle typing feel, the Lime switch would be the better option, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a luxurious and seamless typing sensation.
Overall, both the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lime switch is more subtle and gentle, with a muted sound profile and a feathery feel, perfect for those looking for a lightweight tactile experience. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound with a buttery and creamy feel, providing typists with a smooth and luxurious typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in a mechanical keyboard switch, both options offer distinct advantages for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a light typing experience with a touch of tactility and wish for a quieter typing experience, the Lime switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you seek a smooth and creamy typing feel with a high-pitched sound profile, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that best aligns with your preferences.
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